Design and parametric analysis of linear synchronous motor with a novel electromagnetic Halbach array in HTS maglev system

As a promising transportation solution, the high-temperature superconducting (HTS) maglev system is gaining attention in magnetic levitation technology due to its inherent passive self-stability. To align with this characteristic, this paper proposes a compact propulsion system featuring a linear synchronous motor (LSM) with an electromagnetic Halbach (EH) array. In this configuration, the air gap magnetic field is excited by the EH array with a triangular winding pattern. First, the magnetic field distribution of the EH array is characterized via analytical and finite element (FEM) modeling, and the single-side magnetic field performance is validated. Subsequently, the electromagnetic design of the EH-LSM is developed based on the novel HTS maglev suspension frame of the University of L’Aquila model 4 (UAQ4) Italian maglev train. The electromagnetic force characteristics are analyzed using analytical calculation and FEM simulation. The thrust error is controlled within 2.53%, meeting the requirements of the preset operating condition, while the normal force remains at a low level, approaching zero. Meanwhile, the electromagnetic force characteristics can be regulated by adjusting the current phase. Next, parametric analysis of the EH-LSM is performed to obtain the evolution characteristics of the magnetic field and thrust under different secondary structure dimensions and current inputs. The results indicate that the EH-LSM performs propulsion and holds promise as a compact and flexible driving solution in the HTS maglev system.